Clare Hunt on the Matildas’ “good start to the friendly series.”

Above: Clare Hunt in action in a previous game for the Matildas. Image: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

By Genevieve Henry (27/10/24).

After the Matildas played out a tight draw with Switzerland, Clare Hunt spoke to the press about the result as well as the upcoming game against Germany.

“I think the result was pretty fair for the game we played.” Hunt said, elaborating that the team was obviously happy to have gotten on the scoreboard, but remarking that the result came down to defensive errors and a lack of organisation. Switzerland’s goal came from a mess in the Matildas’ penalty box that no player managed to get a solid boot on. Hunt reiterated the necessity of an organised defence that can clear danger.

Although there were moments of chaos and poor play, this game was a massive positive for Australia after a rough Olympic Games. “We’re in a bit of a transition period, we’ve had a new coaching staff come in, we’ve had a few young players come in as well. So I think for us, its a good start to this friendly series.” 

The promising signs included great games by some of Australia’s young stars in Kyra Cooney-Cross and Kaitlyn Torpey, the confidence of Caitlin Foord in burying a penalty when the regular takers were absent, and the introduction of the exciting Daniela Galic. Hunt spoke of the positives from the performance, saying, “we were quite effective moving forward quickly and creating transition moments, and I think that’s where our goal came from.”

“Every game that we have together is great preparation so I think moving forward, we really need to use these games to our advantage.”

Hunt also spoke about the Matildas need to find their identity, saying they need to “find things that work for us, recognise the things that don’t, and just continue to just build our style of play.” Under Tony Gustavsson, they had a very possession-based style that tried to force playing out from the back. Under interim manager Tom Sermanni, the Matildas are getting back to basics in order to get in the groove and find themselves again.

Above: Hunt shares her insights on how the Matildas can prepare for Germany. Image: Football Australia.

Looking ahead to the match-up with a formidable Germany side, Hunt is focused on how to improve in defence. “We need to be a bit more secure at the back and organise defensively better this game.”

“Germany are a great squad and they had a wonderful result against England, so we know the competition will be tough, but I think if we create good transition moments going forward, take our chances in front of goal, and organise defensively then I think we have a shot.”

The two sides faced each other recently in the Olympics, a game where Germany emerged victorious with a 3-0 win. Regardless, the Matildas are not dwelling on the past, only using clips from that match to prepare. “We only played them three months ago, so I don’t think their style of play has changed considerably.”

Further in the future, the Matildas are using these friendlies and a relatively relaxed year to start their preparation for a big Asian Cup on home soil in 2026. These periods without major tournaments are so important for national teams to form their identity, grow their squad, and recharge after a packed schedule.

“It’s been really lovely to see everyone again, train with everyone again, and be a part of the group. It’s nice to build towards a big end of year, but always looking forward to the Asian Cup coming up and the qualifications next year.”

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Foord: We wanted the win – but there are positives

by Ben Gilby (27/10/24)

Above: Caitlin Foord (9) in action for Australia against Switzerland on Friday. Photo: Marcio Machado / Football Australia.

Some powerful performances for Arsenal in the WSL this season were transferred onto the international scene for Caitlin Foord on Friday night local time.

The 29-year-old attacker put the Matildas in front against Switzerland in Zürich from the penalty spot before the team was pegged back by Géraldine Reuteler’s equaliser just before the hour mark.

Reflecting on the game, Foord said: “I think we were a little bit disappointed not to come away with the win, and we wanted to keep a clean sheet. There are a few things we can work on but there are positives from our first game back together.”

After bagging a stunning strike against Chelsea in the WSL recently to add to her four-goal haul against Rangers in Champions League qualifying, Foord was thrilled to see another hit the back of the net – with the method being a particular reward for a recent training ground focus, “To do it (score) from the penalty spot, it’s something I’ve been working on, so I’m super happy.”

Above: Australia celebrate after Caitlin Foord’s penalty gave them the lead in Switzerland on Friday. Photo: Marcio Machado / Football Australia.

All eyes now turn towards Germany, in a game played on Monday evening local time in Duisburg. The European side is in rampant form having run up a 3-0 lead at Wembley Stadium against England within the opening 29 minutes (see Ruby Vince’s analysis on the game here: https://impetusfootball.org/2024/10/25/germany-triumph-in-seven-goal-thriller-over-england/) before dealing with the Lionesses’ fightback to win 4-3.

However, Australia know all about Germany’s multiple face-paced attacking weapons, having been on the receiving end of a 3-0 defeat themselves at the Olympic Games back in July. With interim head coach Tom Sermanni looking to be deploying a tighter defensive system than the one used three months ago in the previous fixture, there is belief that this time could be different.

Looking ahead to that fixture, Foord underlined that hope: “We don’t have much time…it’s the same for them as well. We want to come away with a win against them, especially after our game in the Olympics.”

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Galic looks right at home on senior debut for Australia

By Alice de Koster-Kitto 27/10/24

Above: Daniela Galic. Photo Marcio Machado / Football Australia

“Since the first time I stepped onto the pitch I dreamed of representing my country.”

On Friday night, Daniela Galic made her much-awaited senior debut in a 1-1 draw against Switzerland, becoming Matilda #229. The 18-year-old midfielder came on in the 77th minute of the match and quickly made her mark on the pitch, holding her own and settling into the squad with ease. 

One of three late substitutions, Galic helped shift the momentum, following a relatively uneventful, yet tense clash. As stoppage time approached her input on the pitch became evident, contributing to many late opportunities. However, neither side managed to score a decisive goal. 

Galic’s innate ability to execute strategic through-balls and attacking playing style proved to be an asset during her short stint on the field.

As she developed her game at Melbourne City, the young gun showed incredible versatility and promise, netting nine goals and a further nine assists, across her 39 appearances with the club from 2022 to 2024.

The attacker is no stranger to the international stage, having played a central role in the Young Matilda’s bronze medal finish at the U-20 Women’s Asian Cup Uzbekistan 2024. Well acquainted with the current national side, these friendlies mark Galic’s second senior camp, after joining the team in February as a train-on player.

The rising stars call-up comes just a week after receiving a nomination for the AFC Youth Player of The Year Award. 

She brings a fresh set of skills to the current Matildas squad and has displayed skillful versatility in her short professional career. Having signed for Dutch side Twente during this year’s off-season, Galic became one of the youngest players to play Champions League football, making her debut in the tournament in a 2-0 victory over Celtic. 

Following a disappointing Olympic run, along with the departure of head coach Tony Gustavsson, the addition of the gifted young attacker presents a sense of hope to a somewhat uncertain Matildas squad.  Being anointed as ‘the future of Australian football’ by Former Matilda turned pundit Grace Gill, Galic is poised to become a key member of the national side in the coming years as she continues to grow as a player.

The pressure of such esteemed praise does not seem to get to the midfielder, as she does not shy away from big opportunities, and appears unafraid to fully immerse herself in the game, no matter the circumstance.

“It was such a surreal moment,” Galic said after the game.

“To do it with this group of girls who I watched during the World Cup and idolised, it just makes it even more special”

With a slew of international friendlies ahead of the 2026 AFC Asian Women’s Cup, Galic is presented with ample opportunity to grow as a player and prove herself as a necessary addition to the squad. Having made a name for herself amongst Australia’s most celebrated footballers, along with an already impressive start with 2022  Eredivisie Vrouwen Champions, Twente, Galic can only move forward in the coming years. 

Should she continue with such great promise, Galic is likely to be a strong candidate for the 2026 AFC Asian Women’s Cup squad, which would mark not only her first experience in competitive football with the senior side but also her first tournament on home soil. 

This week’s debut is only the beginning of what is expected to be a brilliant career for the young star.

Matildas fans can be excited to continue watching Daniela Galic as she cements herself as part of the nation’s most beloved team.

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Arnold makes the difference in tight tussle with Switzerland

Switzerland 1-1 Australia

By Kieran Yap 26/10/24

Above: Mackenzie Arnold grabs the ball against Switzerland. Photo: Football Australia, Marcio Machado.

A Caitlin Foord penalty and a strong performance from Mackenzie Arnold saw Australia draw 1-1 with Switzerland, but some long standing questions still remain without obvious answers.

In Tom Sermanni’s first game back in charge of The Matildas, the team set out with a more pragmatic approach than has been used in friendlies in recent years. The side had more focus on defence, and counterattack, with captain Ellie Carpenter rarely running into the final third, and Caitlin Foord looking for the quick release as the lone striker.

Switzerland had the best of the early opportunities. Viola Calligaris and Smilla Vallatto were both denied by Arnold with close range saves that bordered on the miraculous, and when Australia took the lead, it was almost against the run of play.

Carpenter’s long curling pass sent Foord through behind the Swiss defence and she raced towards goal. Her last touch took her around Elvira Herzog, but the Switzerland goalkeeper fouled her as the passed and Foord picked herself up to score from the spot.

The lead would last until the 58th minute when Geraldine Reuteler capitalized on a poor defensive clearance to bounce the ball beyond Arnold. It took a lucky deflection, but a goal was no less than the hosts deserved after creating the better chances.

Australia turned to the bench in an effort to regain control of the match. Of the substitutes used, the most notable was Daniela Galic. The 18 year old made her debut in the senior side as cap number 299 for The Matildas. The most impactful was Clare Wheeler.

The Everton midfielder was immediately busy. She was mobile without the ball and proactive with it. Most of Wheeler’s passes went forward and she was constantly darting into pockets of space between the Swiss lines. Galic was not anonymous in her first cap, and immediately looked to involve herself. The Fc Twente midfielder showed no signs of stage fright, and more opportunities could see her really flourish at this level.

Sharn Freier was effective on the left after coming on for Kaitlyn Torpey. In the absence of Cortnee Vine and Hayley Raso, Freier was the only pure winger in the squad. She used her pace to run at the Swiss defenders at every opportunity and although her end product remains a work in progress, she is another recent cap that can make an impact in the Green and Gold.

Although the match ended in a disappointing stalemate, there were good signs. Arnold looks back to her best, Clare Hunt was canny and sturdy in defence, and Carpenter was excellent in a very defensive role.

The negatives, aside from the understandable rustiness are mostly questions without immediate answers.

Should Australia try to incorporate Wheeler into the lineup from the start?

Where is Mary Fowler’s best position? (Hint, whatever it is, its one closer to goal than in this match.)

Does the style and gameplay change too drastically without Steph Catley on the pitch?

It is early days in the new cycle, and Australia are traditionally rusty in the first game of an international window. But the tests do not come any easier, they face a free-scoring Germany on Tuesday morning and every player and coach will be looking for an improvement on their last meeting at the Paris Olympics.

Lineups:

Switzerland: Herzog, Maritz, Buhler,  Calligaris, Luet, Riesen, Valotto, Walti, Reuteler, Bachmann, Crnogorcevic. Substitutes: Baumann, Schertenleib, Mauron, Beney, Lehmann, Bohi, Stierli, Marti, Sow, Peng, Andrade, Terchoun.

Scorer: Reuteler 58’

Australia: Arnold, Nevin, Kennedy, Hunt, Carpenter, Fowler, Gorry, Cooney-Cross, Yallop, Foord, Torpey. Substitutes: Wheeler, Catley, van Egmond, Freier, Galic, Heyman, Heatley, Polkinghorne, Whyman, Grant, Lincoln.

Scorer: Foord 43’

Attendance: 14,370.

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Germany Triumph in Seven-Goal Thriller Over England

England 3-4 Germany

by Ruby Vince (25/10/24)

Above: The Lionesses thank the fans after their defeat. Photo: Lionesses on X

Germany’s Giulia Gwinn struck twice in a breathless first half as Germany held off a late England resurgence at Wembley.

The visitors narrowly claimed victory in a dramatic 4-3 encounter against England at Wembley. A flurry of early goals and a resilient defence helped Germany edge England in a match that showcased the tactical depth and determination of both teams. Ultimately, Germany’s early advantage and decisive finishing proved too much for England to overcome.

Why were Germany so successful?

Germany came out strong, putting England under intense pressure from the start. Within the first two minutes, Germany struck with Gwinn’s penalty, setting England back on their heels. Just eight minutes later, a second goal further deflated England, giving Germany a commanding lead that dictated the pace of the game. By pressing high and fast, Germany’s attackers forced England’s defence into quick decisions, often creating gaps that allowed players like Bühl and Gwinn to slip through with ease. Their high press was relentless, constantly closing down England’s passing lanes and forcing mistakes.

Germany’s compact midfield also played a crucial role, especially in blocking England’s attempts to play through the middle. This forced England to rely more on the wings, which proved challenging given Germany’s disciplined defensive setup. Even after conceding three goals, Germany’s defence maintained its shape, managing to handle England’s aerial threats and set pieces effectively. Ann-Katrin Berger’s strong performance in goal, along with the backline’s timely tackles and clearances, kept the Lionesses’ at bay, especially as the pressure ramped up in the second half.

Impact of Stanway and Gwinn

Stanway was pivotal for England’s attacking game, often driving forward and keeping Germany’s defenders on high alert. She was key in turning England’s momentum, especially with her two goals that came in quick succession. Her goal from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute, followed by another just two minutes later, temporarily shifted the momentum back to England, keeping their hopes alive. Stanway frequently found gaps in Germany’s high defensive line, using her speed and awareness to exploit any hesitation. Her powerful shots tested Berger and highlighted her ability to challenge even a solid German defence.

On Germany’s side, Gwinn was a standout, marking her influence early with two quick goals that set the pace of the match. Her first goal set the tone, and her second showcased her precision and positioning. Beyond her finishing ability, Gwinn’s role extended to linking up plays from midfield and consistently applying pressure on England’s backline. Gwinn’s relentless energy and clinical finishing made her a constant threat, one that England’s defence struggled to manage throughout the game.

Above: Georgia Stanway keen for a quick restart after her second goal. Photo: Lionesses on X

What Could England Have Done?

England’s defence struggled to handle Germany’s fast, aggressive start, leaving gaps that players like Gwinn and Bühl quickly exploited. A more compact defensive setup could have limited Germany’s space, especially in the first half, as Germany’s high press kept England in catch-up mode. Adjusting sooner to Germany’s tempo might have helped England find their feet.

In attack, England showed promise with quick transitions and set-piece opportunities, but Germany’s compact defence often neutralised their efforts. Playing wider and moving the ball faster could have forced Germany to spread out, creating openings for England’s midfield. 

Ultimately, while England’s persistence brought them close to a comeback, Germany’s well-executed high-press tactics and their ability to control the game’s tempo proved decisive. Germany’s early lead and consistent disruption of England’s play allowed them to maintain control, edging out a thrilling contest that saw both teams showcase their strengths. 

Teams: ENGLAND (4-3-3): Hampton, Bronze, Bright, Williamson, Carter, Stanway, Toone, Walsh, Mead, Russo, Hemp. Substitutes: Beever-Jones, Clinton, Earps, Greenwood, Kelly, Le Tissier, Moorhouse, Morgan, Naz, Park, Parker.

Scorers: Stanway 33′ pen, 36’, Bronze 81’. 

GERMANY (4-2-3-1): Berger, Linder, Minge, Doorson, Gwinn, Senß, Dallmann, Bühl, Nüsken, Brand, Hoffmann. Substitutes: Anymoi, Cerci, Däbritz, Endemann, Grâwe, Johannes, Kleinherne, Lohmann, Rauch, Winkler, Wolter

Scorers: Gwinn 4′ pen, 11’, Bühl 29’, Däbritz 72′. 

Referee: Marta Huerta De Aza.

Attendance: 47,967.

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Sarina Wiegman: “They are headaches I want to have”

By Emily Wyatt (24/10/24)

Above: Sarina Wiegman at the matchday –1 press conference at St Georges Park, Photo: Madeline Blount, Impetus Football.

Lionesses head coach Sarina Wiegman and England captain Leah Williamson both expressed their expectations regarding their upcoming friendlies against Germany and South Africa within the next week. Wiegman believes it will be “really good for the team to get that experience at the highest level.” The boss also confirmed Fran Kirby and Lotte Wubben-Moy are ruled out of the German friendly at Wembley Stadium.

After being asked why the friendlies against Germany and South Africa were decided, Wiegman confidently stated her reasons within the press conference. She understands that both teams are “totally different at the high level” which will give the Lionesses a more effective test. Ultimately, she fully understands the level and standard in which the German national team play, which will be a good test for the Lionesses. Additionally, she stated that she wanted the team to play against South Africa as they “always play a little different with their style and have a different identity which we want to play against too”.

Overall, she knows that her team as a whole “know where they want to get to in July”. Wiegman also discussed the “headache” that she currently has, based around the team selection.

It is well known to WSL fans that Alessia Russo and Beth Mead have not had the strongest start to the season both playing for Arsenal, which could potentially take a toll on their chances of being first pick for the starting lineups when it comes to international football. Striker, Russo, has not scored one goal so far in this WSL season while her teammate Mead has only secured one goal within her five appearances for her club.

Although, it is not only her forwards which the boss has had a “headache” over but also her midfielders. Keira Walsh and Georgia Stanway have been regular starters in the middle for England over the last few years, but now with the outstanding running form of Grace Clinton since returning to Manchester United and Jess Park at Manchester City, more competition could be waiting when fighting for that starting spot within the vastly talented squad.

However, Wiegman positively states that it is a “headache that she wants to have” as it will ultimately give her more options throughout the selection of her team.

Above: Lionesses in training at SGP before their game at Wembley against Germany. Photo: Madeline Blount, Impetus Football.

Not only was the discussion on potential changes within the squad popular, but there was also a lot of focus on the currently injured players within the squad and how that could possibly affect the team in the upcoming fixtures.  

Lauren James, who withdrew from this month’s camp, due to a calf injury is expected to miss out on the Lionesses’ November camp too, because of the extent of her injury. Sarina described James as a “very talented player” and reassured everyone that “as soon as she gets fit, and she gets at her level as well as the playing minutes, then she begins to show quality and from there we will see how the competition is”. Weigman has made it very clear that no player gets a free pass into her squad because of how high the competition for every single position is and James is no exception.

As for Fran Kirby and Lotte Wubben-Moy, they will be remaining in camp to take part in individual training and recovery to treat their current injuries. The forward and defender will be undoubtedly ruled out for the clash against Germany however, they are hoping to be ready for the team’s game against South Africa on Tuesday.

Overall, Weigman stated that her team as a whole “know where they want to get to in July” which makes their upcoming preparations vital on the road to the Euros next year.

Ellie Carpenter on the Matildas clean slate: “I think this is what we’ve needed”

by Isabelle Campbell (24/10/2024)

Above: Ellie Carpenter (right) in action for Australia. Photo: Kris Goman for Impetus.

Matildas vice captain Ellie Carpenter believes that the cycle ahead for the team with a new coaching set up is something that offers a chance for renewal and to refresh.

Whilst Hayley Raso’s late withdrawal due to injury is a blow, the Olympique Lyonnais star sees the positives it brings after Sarah Hunter received a late call to replace her.

“Unfortunately she’s (Raso) not here due to her hamstring injury but you know that gives a chance for another player to step up in that position.”

Hunter signed a three year contract with her French club Paris FC last year. Having been in the same league for four years herself with Lyon, Carpenter outlined the positives that Hunter will bring to the national team.

“I think for her obviously being young, I think being exposed to a team like that, a high level team, she’s training with great players everyday and technically she’s going to improve.

“Even seeing her in training yesterday compared to a camp last year, she’s improved so much and I think that just shows, being over in Europe at one of the best clubs is really great for her.

“Now she can come into this environment and show what she’s about…That’s a great thing about the national team, when players can work at their clubs and come back in and show their level.”

With the upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Germany being the first games to be played under interim head coach Tom Sermanni, we could well see a new style of play for the Matildas as they try to rediscover their momentum that was lost during the Olympics.

“It obviously depends what formation we do play but there is a lot of people that can step up, put their hand up and perform under Tommy (Sermanni) here and kind of show what they can offer.”

The opportunity presented in having an interim coach, though one with such a deep history with the Matildas and many players still in the squad, is the ability to experiment, try out new tactics and introduce some new faces into the squad.

“I think it’s a clean slate, it’s a new cycle and I think this is what we’ve needed”

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Euro 2025 qualifiers: Cymru prepare for face-off against Slovakia

Lois Joel training ahead Cymru vs Slovakia. Photo: Morganna King for Impetus Football

by Morganna King (23/10/24)

Preparations are in full swing ahead of Cymru Women’s Euro 2025 play-off semi-final matches against Slovakia. There are already 7,000 tickets sold ahead of their home leg at the Cardiff City Stadium, but first, an away trip to the NTC Stadium in Poprad on Friday. Cymru players Carrie Jones and Lois Joel were present to speak to the media yesterday at the Vale Resort in Hensol.

On the possibility of making history:

Carrie Jones- Obviously, we’re all excited, there’s a lot of noise around the games but we as a team are all focusing on the first game against Slovakia.

Lois Joel- We obviously have our goals but we’re just going to focus on one game at a time. Slovakia is completely our focus and that’s what this camp is about. We’ll be looking to get the results this round before we look at heading back.

On Slovakia:

Carrie Jones- We know they’re a tough team to come against and you know, we’ve done a lot of analysis and like I said we’re just going to keep our feet on the ground. We’ve got to stay present, take each day as it comes, train hard and then at the day it comes to play the game we know what our role is. We know that they’re a really tough team and we know what we’ve got to do to execute the game plan.

On the absence of their teammate:

Carrie Jones- Soph (Sophie Ingle) is a huge loss, not just on the pitch but as a character as well so we all wish her the best with her recovery.

Lois Joel- The girls are gutted for Soph, we want to do as well as we can for her now as well. The good thing about our team is we have depth and other players that can come in and do a job. So yeah, it will be exciting for those players, whoever gets the opportunities to show what they’re about.

On the new captain:

Carrie Jones- Haz (Angharad James) has been there for me since my first camp. She’s a great person and you know I’m really glad that she has the armband, and I know that she’s a perfect fit and I know she’ll do great for the team.

Lois Joel- It’s great news we love Haz, we respect her as a leader. She’s been around the setup for a long time, she knows what it takes, and anyone can go up to her and talk to her so we’re all very happy for her and I’m sure she’s delighted as well.

On personal and team goals:

Lois Joel- Me personally I’m just trying to build on my role, grow it as much as possible. If I do get minutes or when I get minutes, making advantage of that and helping the team. And as a team like we said, our focus is just on the next two games and getting the results we need for this camp.

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Caitlin Foord: ‘It’s about making the most of it while we’re here”

By Isabelle Campbell 23/10/24

Above: Caitlin Foord in action for Australia earlier this year. Photo: Tilly McDonald for Impetus

Just three weeks ago Caitlin Foord found herself in the defensive line for her club Arsenal, though not a position she finds herself in often in recent times, this was certainly not her first experience at putting in a defensive shift. 

“I obviously started off as a forward,” Foord said in today’s media conference from the Matildas base in Switzerland.

“But I got made into a fullback under Tommy (Sermanni) because that was a position that was needed within the team and he thought that I could take on that role.”

In 2011 Foord received her first call up to the Matildas by none other than Tom Sermanni, the current interim coach for the team following Tony Gustavsson’s departure. Though already an established forward, the Australia coach made the bold decision to play the 16 year old at right back at the 2011 Women’s World Cup in Germany.

“I just made it my own and stayed there for a couple of years but deep down I always was a forward and i think you could see that even when I was at right back as well.”

The star held her own even out of position and faced with the massive task of marking the formidable presence of Brazilian footballing legend Marta.

Though they were eliminated following a quarter final loss to Sweden, Foord was awarded Best Young Player for the tournament and later AFC Youth Player of the year.

“I wanted to get forward and create and be up on the, I guess I would say, more exciting end of the pitch, as every forward would say.”

Though it’s unlikely we will see our number nine playing in the backline in the Matildas upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Germany, the Arsenal star player did assure that she is willing and ready to play wherever she’s needed. 

“It was a bit weird going back there these last couple of games with Arsenal just because it had been a long time but I’ve always said wherever I’m needed on the pitch I would be willing to play but I hope to think that I’ve got my spot up front somewhere to stay there.”

Following a busy three year stretch of back-to-back international tournaments, Foord spoke on the tournament-free year the Australian squad will have in 2025.

“I mean it sounds nice although a long way away but I think because we do have the year off these friendlies are even more important to get the results and to play the way we want to play”

2025 will likely prove to be a year of strengthening and building upon what was started in the Matildas home World Cup run, with the Asian Cup set for next year, also a home-soil tournament, the matches played between now and then are of extreme importance despite not being ‘competitive’.

“These are the opportunities we have to get it right and it has to be right come the Asian Cup and that’s what we’re obviously leading into and our focus is on, but every game up until then is important.”

Having just arrived at camp in Switzerland the squad have the next few days to reintegrate back in to National Team mode and prepare for the upcoming match against the Swiss side.

“Camp comes and goes so quickly,” said Foord.

“So it’s about making the most of it while we’re here”

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‘He’s an incredible human’: Michelle Heyman reunited with her first Matildas coach .

By Kieran Yap 21/10/2024

Above: Michelle Heyman. Photo: Football Australia

In 2010 Michelle Heyman received her first call up for The Matildas. Fourteen years later, the received her most recent, from the same coach.

Interim manager Tom Sermanni’s appointment has been met with a mostly positive reception, and The A-League Women’s record goal scorer was delighted to get the call from her old mentor.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Tommy again,” Heyman told the media from camp in Switzerland.  

“He was the coach who gave me debut, so I’ve got great respect for him.

“He’s an incredible human, extremely happy all the time. He brings a really positive vibe into this environment.

“I know what his strengths are, and I’m excited to watch him bring that into our training session and allow us to grow as footballers.”

Despite being one of the most electrifying and skilful centre forwards in Australia, Heyman spent much of the last four years in the international wilderness. A recall by former manager Tony Gustavsson was instantly repaid with seven goals including a winner at the Paris Olympics against Zambia.

Ahead of their first training session under Sermanni, Heyman said it would be difficult to compare The Matildas two most successful managers.

“They’ve both got their own strengths and the one thing I’m looking for this camp is to listen, take it all on and whatever Tommy says that’s what you do… and try and be the best footballer you can so you can  win games and help your teammates out.”

Heyman’s illustriuous career has seen early success and recent adulation. She is currently Australia’s most natural and effective number nine, and says that experience has made her a more dangerous forward.

“I still remember my debut and I remember feeling like a headless chook, running out on the field and wasting all my energy on the first sprint because I was so nervous and I couldn’t believe that I was playing for my country.

“When I look back, even at my last games at the Olympics, I just feel so confident in myself and my position and I know the game so well now. I’ve got all those years of experience behind me.

“I’m a very different footballer since 2010 to where I am today and it’s only gone upwards.”

Joining Heyman in this camp is past and future teammate Chloe Lincoln. The former Canberra United goalkeeper received her first call up with the senior team. As someone who has seen her career grow from up close, Heyman is thrilled for the 19 year old custodian.

“I’m not surprised at all,” she said.

“Chloe is an exceptional goalkeeper. She is pure talent and I’ve been lucky enough to work with her to multiple years at Canberra United… to see her here, I was like a proud mum.

“She really deserves this opportunity. For herself to grow as a player, to be surrounded by Macca (Mackenzie Arnold), Teagan (Micah), Jada (Whyman), she’s only going to learn in this environment and get better.

“She’s really looking forward to this camp. I’ve told her to keep her eyes wide open, take in all the information you can get an enjoy every moment because I see her as the future goalkeeper for Australia.

“I’m just super excited for her.”

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